Really, if you're confused after the first eps, please continue, it does get much better. Trust me, I tried to watch it multiple times cause of great recommendations and just couldn't get through it. I went back to it one more time and I'm glad I stuck with it. An absolutely beautiful story, the confusion at the beginning fades once we get almost fully immersed into the novel. Teared up at the end. Marcus and Vivian's chemistry truly help make the story come to life. The complexity of Xiao En (Vivian's character) comes from her being just as confused as us when her reality is suddenly mixed with a novel and everything she knew is no longer what it seems. Without giving spoilers, when she's misunderstood as trying to sabotage the female lead of the novel, it gets frustrating for us as the audience but also for her as she tries to navigate through her new life. All of this contributes to her eventually moving closer to the male lead and second male lead. We start understanding her frustrations bit by bit. Situ Ao Ran's insecurities/flaws make his charm honestly, he's unabashedly a stereotypical lead on the surface but everything about his character is what helps deepen his relationship with Xiao En. If you're still reading and thinking of watching, do give it chance. 100000/10 recommend!